Court filing alleges Swadley referenced Gov. Kevin Stitt, Sen. James Lankford and gubernatorial candidate Mike Mazzei while seeking release pending appeal after his fraud conviction.
OKLAHOMA CITY – Days after a jury convicted former state contractor Brent Swadley on fraud-related charges, prosecutors say he was recorded discussing potential assistance from some of Oklahoma’s most influential Republican officeholders and political figures while in the Oklahoma County jail.
According to reporting by The Oklahoman, prosecutors cited the recorded phone calls as part of their opposition to Swadley’s request for release on bond while he appeals his conviction. The filing alleges Swadley discussed “pulling political favors” and referenced Gov. Kevin Stitt, U.S. Sen. James Lankford and Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Mazzei.
Swadley was convicted May 28 on one count of conspiracy to defraud the state and five counts of presenting fraudulent claims to the state in connection with contracts to remodel and operate restaurants at Oklahoma state parks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jurors recommended prison time totaling 10 years and fines of $75,000.
In a May 30 jail call cited by prosecutors, Swadley reportedly told his wife, “I just hope that Stitt just does the right thing.” Prosecutors also allege he later suggested it was “time for Stitt to step in” before being interrupted by his wife, who urged him to stop discussing the matter.
Deputy Attorney General Gayland Gieger argued during a court hearing that the calls were noteworthy because Swadley was not discussing evidence from his trial or claims of innocence but instead talking about political relationships and influence.
The filing also references comments about Lankford and Mazzei. According to The Oklahoman, Swadley said he and Lankford had “worked together a bunch” and added, “I’ve worked for Stitt more than any of them.” Prosecutors also said Swadley reacted positively after learning President Donald Trump had endorsed Mazzei in the 2026 governor’s race.
A spokesman for Mazzei’s campaign told The Oklahoman that Mazzei has never met Swadley and knows only what he has read about the case. The governor’s office reiterated a previous statement denying that Stitt had spoken with Swadley about a pardon.
The allegations touch on a recurring theme in Oklahoma politics: whether well-connected figures believe personal relationships with elected officials can influence government decisions. Prosecutors have not accused any public official of wrongdoing, but they argue Swadley’s recorded comments reveal his expectation that political connections could prove valuable after his conviction.
District Judge Susan Stallings postponed a hearing on Swadley’s request for release pending appeal until July 2 to allow defense attorneys additional time to review the recordings. Defense attorney Peter Scimeca argued in court that prosecutors were taking comments made during a difficult period in Swadley’s life out of context.
The conviction stems from Swadley’s management of restaurants at Oklahoma state parks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prosecutors alleged he inflated invoices submitted to the state, including bills for used meat smokers that were allegedly marked up well above their original purchase price. Jurors ultimately found him guilty after a multi-week trial in Oklahoma County District Court.
Swadley’s formal sentencing is scheduled for July 16. Prosecutors have alleged the state was defrauded of at least $3.1 million through the state park restaurant contracts. The court also has yet to determine restitution.
This story is based on reporting by Nolan Clay of The Oklahoman.
